Ten Tips for Flying with Your Dog

Taking his first flight can be a traumatic experience for a dog that's used to sticking his head out the car window and enjoying the sights along the way. After all, his view won't be the same from underneath the seat in front of you, or even worse, from the cargo hold. But getting there can still be half the fun if you follow the ten tips below. In addition, make sure you're familiar with the airline’s pet policy, restrictions on pet travel in the U.S., and any additional international pet travel restrictions at your destination.

1. Book Early

Most airlines only allow one or two dogs on each flight, so it's important to book your dog's ticket as soon as possible. Don't buy your ticket until you call the airline and make sure there is a "seat" available for your dog on the flight. Once the agent has confirmed availability, reserve both your seats on the same ticket while you're still on the phone with the agent.

2. Fly Direct

Book a non-stop, direct flight whenever possible and try to fly on a weekday when airports are typically less hectic. If your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold, it's best to fly in the morning or evening during the summer, and midday during the winter to avoid extremely hot or cold temperatures.

3. Visit the Veterinarian

Make an appointment with your pet's veterinarian for a check-up and to make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of departure. For travel outside the continental United States, additional planning and health care requirements may be necessary. For up-to-date information, contact the foreign office of the country you are planning to visit with your canine companion.

4. Buy a Carrier

Whether your dog is a Chihuahua or a larger breed, there's a pet carrier to match. Carriers are available in both hard-sided and soft-sided. Soft-sided carriers are more suitable for carry-on and tend to fit better under the seat, but they're only permitted in the cabin. To make sure the carrier will fit under the seat on your flight, check the size restrictions of the airline. If your dog will be traveling in the cargo hold, purchase a hard plastic carrier with holes for ventilation instead. Carriers must be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the carrier does not permit him to do this, the airline will refuse transport.

5. Can I See Some ID M'aam?

After you've purchased an appropriate carrier, write your dog's name on it and include identification tags with your home address and phone number, as well as the address and phone number of someone who can be reached at your destination. Carry a current photograph of your pet as well. If he's lost during the trip, a photograph will make it much easier for airline employees or the local authorities to search effectively. You might also want to consider a permanent form of ID, such as a microchip or tattoo. This will increase the likelihood of reuniting with your dog if he gets lost on the trip.

6. Take a Test Drive

Animals travel under less stress when they are accustomed to their carrier before they travel. In the weeks prior to your trip, put your dog in his carrier as often as possible for trips around town.

7. Eat. Drink. Poop. Play.

Since a full stomach might be uncomfortable for your dog during travel, we recommend feeding him about four hours before the flight, if possible. While it's best to refrain from feeding your dog right before the flight, you can (and should) continue to give him water right up to the time of travel. Just be sure to empty the dish before checking in so it doesn't spill during the flight. If you're checking your pooch, leave the dishes in the carrier so an airline employee can provide your pet with food and water in the event of an extended delay before or after your flight. You should also exercise your pet and let him use the facilities (i.e. grass) before heading to the airport.

8. Arrive Early

Arrive at the airport early, but not too early, and have your dog's health certificate handy. You will not be allowed to check-in your pet more than four hours before the flight. Most airlines recommend arriving two hours before your flight when traveling with a pet. Passengers with pets must check-in at the counter; curbside and self-service check-in are not allowed. And remember to account for the longer security lines that are common in airports these days.

9. (Don't) Take a Valium

We don't mind if you take a valium before the flight, but don't give your pet tranquilizers just because you're nervous. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, in most cases, dogs should not be given sedatives or tranquilizers prior to flying because they can create respiratory and cardiovascular problems as the dog is exposed to increased altitude pressures. They can also alter the animal's natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium, which can be dangerous when the carrier is moved. While sedation is generally not advised, the decision on whether or not to prescribe a tranquilizer for your pet should be made by your veterinarian. If he or she decides that tranquilizers are medically necessary for the trip, indicate the name of the drug taken and the dosage on the dog's carrier.

10. You've Arrived!

When you arrive at your destination, go for a long walk before you check-in at the hotel. Your dog will feel more comfortable as soon as he sees (and smells) his new surroundings, and realizes that the same rules and boundaries apply here too. By the time you check into the hotel, your dog will already feel right and home and be ready for whatever adventures are in store for him that week.